SAINT PAUL, Minn. — Bethel women's hockey put together one of its strongest defensive efforts of the season on Friday night, but a third-period goal proved to be the difference as the Royals fell 0–1 on the road to No. 9-ranked Hamline.

Bethel outshot the Pipers 33–30, generating steady pressure throughout all three periods, but Hamline goaltender Kendra Nordick turned away every Royals attempt to preserve the shutout.

The game remained scoreless deep into the third period until Hamline broke through at 4:36. Annabel Mehta found the back of the net off a feed from Averie Martin and Brooke Klemz for what became the lone—and game-winning—goal.

Senior goaltender Ashley Gustafson (Hess) was stellar for Bethel, stopping 29 of 30 shots, including seven in the first, nine in the second, and 13 in the final frame. She kept the Royals within striking distance all night despite three Bethel penalties in the final period.

Offensively, Bethel generated quality looks from up and down the lineup. Freshman Rylen Kissell led the Royals with five shots, while freshman Sophie Martin, sophomore Afton Hulke, and others pushed the pace, helping Bethel win 48 percent of its draws and out-attempt Hamline 16–7 in the first period.

Bethel had two power-play opportunities but couldn't convert, finishing the night 0-for-2 with the advantage. The Royals' penalty kill, however, went a perfect 3-for-3.

With the loss, Bethel moves to 2–3–0 (0–3–0 MIAC) on the season. The Royals will finish their weekend series against Hamline tomorrow, looking to bounce back and deliver an even stronger performance in the rematch.